
Ibrahim Named Heart Athletic Trainer of the Year
Oskaloosa--William Penn Assistant Athletic Director for Sports Medicine Abu Ibrahim was honored by his league peers as he was named the 2024-2025 Heart of America Athletic Conference Athletic Trainer of the Year Thursday.
Ibrahim, who was selected by his fellow Heart athletic trainers, will now be considered for the NAIA's national award. The national winner will be announced in September as part of the NAIA's National Awards Day.
"I'm incredibly honored to be recognized as Athletic Trainer of the Year by the Heart of America Athletic Conference," Ibrahim said. "This award is a reflection of the dedication and teamwork of our entire Sports Medicine staff and the unwavering support of the William Penn Athletics community. I am grateful to be part of a program that prioritizes the health and well-being of our student-athletes."
Ibraham, who has been at William Penn in two separate stints (most recent stint started in 2017), currently serves at the Chair of the Heart's Athletic Trainers Committee. In that role, he assists with clarifying and updating the conference's medical procedures, resulting in clearer expectations of hosts, while also updating verbiage of medical policies and removing outdated information.
Ibrahim has served on numerous committees, including the Ethnic Diversity Advisory Committee for the National Athletic Trainers Association (NATA) from 2020-2024.
Outside of his career, Ibrahim is also a member of the Oskaloosa City Council and is a board member of Saint Mary of the Hills School in Milton, Mass.
"Abu's professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the health and performance of our student-athletes are second to none," WPU Director of Athletics Grant Farris said. "This recognition is a testament to the vital role he plays in our athletic department and the positive impact he has on everyone he works with. We are incredibly fortunate to have him as part of our team."
What Others Say About Abu:
"Abu's award is well deserved. He is a great asset to William Penn, but he is also a great person and friend." -- John Henry, WPU Head Men's Basketball Coach
"Abu has been a consistent source of support and leadership across our entire athletic department, taking on multiple roles while always prioritizing the health and well-being of student-athletes." -- Liam Bryant, WPU Football Player and President of Association of Student-Athletes